RSPCA warns pet owners to look after pets in hot weather

Sunday, May 27, 2012
9:40 AM

Pet owners are being advised not to leave their cars, conservatories or caravans during the current spell of warm weather after an animal welfare charity received an increase in calls about pets left in hot places.

The RSPCA has already received 195 reports of animals being left in hot places from May 21-23, 172 of which related to dogs.

In the whole of May last year, the charity received 448 reports of incidents involving hot animals.

As a result, the RSPCA is concerned people are not taking on advice and are continuing to leave their animals in places that are far too hot.

RSPCA East Supt Kelly Rivers said: “Most people seem to know the ‘don’t leave dogs in hot cars’ message, but I think they just don’t think anything bad will happen to their pets, particularly if they’re just leaving them for a few minutes.

“What people need to realise is that the next animal to die in a hot car, conservatory or outbuilding could be their pet- that’s how serious this is.”

She added all too often, owners make the mistake of thinking that it is sufficient to leave a bowl of water or a window open for their pet but this is not enough to protect your pet from heatstroke, which can have fatal consequences. Even a hot garden without shade can be disastrous for an animal.

The most obvious sign of heat stroke in dogs is excessive panting and profuse salivation. Other signs include red or purple gums, a rapid pulse and lack of co-ordination.